Four Movies Could Hit $20M This Weekend A 2022 Record
The box office landscape is currently buzzing with a rare possibility: four films are poised to shatter the $20 million barrier this weekend. This milestone, a cinematic high-water mark that hasn’t been reached since June 2022, promises a blockbuster weekend unlike any other. While the contenders are all looking toward the million-dollar mark, the race is far from settled.
At the forefront of the competition are established titans. Avengers: Endgame Encore is expected to land between $24 and $26 million, riding the wave of franchise loyalty and re-releases. Right behind it, the action-packed Resident Evil is predicted to pull in $23.5 million, demonstrating the enduring power of major, well-known franchises to draw massive crowds.
The third spot is occupied by Heart of the Beast, which is performing strongly, estimated to hit the $20 million mark. This film is backed by strong critical reception, boasting an excellent CinemaScore that suggests strong audience appeal and plenty of staying power for the film.
Adding an element of surprise to the race is the A24 film, Primetime. Despite its relatively modest budget of just $15 million, this movie has the potential to reach $20 million, provided Saturday’s attendance meets expectations. It represents a fascinating case study in how critically acclaimed, independent cinema can capture mainstream attention.
Meanwhile, DreamWorks’ animated offering, Forgotten Island, stands as the odd man out. Despite glowing reviews and a strong CinemaScore, the film is projected to barely cross the $10 million threshold. This outcome highlights a persistent challenge for original animated films in the current market, suggesting that while sequels and established franchises continue to dominate, the unique appeal of original animated stories sometimes struggles to resonate with mass audiences.
The weekend’s results offer a compelling snapshot of the current industry dynamic: a tug-of-war between established franchise power and the potential of critically acclaimed, unique storytelling. It leaves the industry—and the creative teams themselves—wondering what exactly struck a chord with audiences, and whether the next $20 million hit will come from a tentpole event or a surprising independent gem.
Credit
